9632667 Chu The Materials Research Science and Engineering Center (MRSEC) at the University of Houston supports research on the synthesis and characterization of oxide materials that have technologically important applications in ionic devices in one interdisciplinary research group. The devices include membrane and electrocatalytic reactors, solid oxide fuel cells, and chemical sensors. The devices promise major advances in industrial chemical processes by improving product selectivity, process efficiency and environmental compatibility. Special emphasis is on complex oxides that are active catalysts for hydrocarbon oxidation and oxygen reduction and have the high ionic conductivity and electronic conductivity required for ionic devices. The MRSEC supports the development, operation and maintenance of shared experimental facilities for materials research. It provides seed funding for exploratory research, fosters research participation by undergraduates and pre-college students, and is developing strong industrial relationships. The Center currently supports 11 senior investigators, 3 postdoctoral research associates, 10 graduate students, and 6 undergraduates. The MRSEC is directed by Professor Paul C.W. Chu. %%% Changing needs in transportation fuels, increasing availability of natural gas, and the emphasis on energy efficient, environmentally benign processes are driving new demands for advanced catalytic and ceramic materials. These trends suggest new opportunities for improved catalytic and separation processes that apply novel oxide materials in new energy production approaches. The Materials Research Science and Engineering Center (MRSEC) at the University of Houston supports research on the synthesis and characterization of oxide materials that have technologically important applications. The MRSEC supports the development, operation and maintenance of shared experimental facilities for materials research. It provides seed funding for explora tory research, fosters research participation by undergraduates and pre-college students, and is developing strong industrial relationships. The Center currently supports 11 senior investigators, 3 postdoctoral research associates, 10 graduate students, and 6 undergraduates. The MRSEC is directed by Professor Paul C.W. Chu. ***
